@phys.org
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References:
bigthink.com
, phys.org
Recent research is challenging previous assumptions about the composition and structure of the smallest galaxies. Traditionally believed to be dominated by dark matter due to the expulsion of normal matter through stellar winds and radiation during star formation, new evidence suggests that supermassive black holes may play a more significant role than previously thought. A recent study indicates that Segue 1, known as the most dark matter-dominated galaxy, might harbor a supermassive black hole at its center, potentially altering our understanding of galactic dynamics in low-mass systems. This proposition offers an alternative explanation for the observed gravitational effects, suggesting that these central black holes could be anchoring these tiny galaxies.
The realm of statistical analysis is also undergoing significant advancements. Mathematician Tyron Lardy has pioneered a novel approach to hypothesis testing, utilizing e-values instead of the conventional p-values. E-values, representing 'expected value', provide greater flexibility, particularly during mid-study analysis when adjustments to data collection or analysis plans are necessary. Unlike p-values, which require conclusions to be drawn only after all data is gathered to maintain statistical validity, e-values remain statistically sound even with modifications to the research process. This advancement holds promise for fields like medicine and psychology, where complex situations often demand adaptable data handling techniques. The development of e-values is based on the concept of betting, where the e-value signifies the potential earnings from such bets, offering quantifiable evidence against the initial assumption. This approach allows researchers to assess whether an assumption still holds true. While the general method for calculating optimal e-values can be intricate, its flexibility and robustness in handling data adjustments offer a valuable tool for scientific research, enhancing the reliability and adaptability of hypothesis testing in various disciplines. Recommended read:
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@quantumcomputingreport.com
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References:
thequantuminsider.com
, Quantum Computing Report
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The quantum computing industry is experiencing a surge in activity, marked by significant acquisitions and technological advancements. IonQ has announced its intent to acquire UK-based Oxford Ionics for $1.075 billion in stock and cash, uniting two leaders in trapped-ion quantum computing. This deal aims to accelerate the development of scalable and reliable quantum systems, targeting 256 high-fidelity qubits by 2026 and over 10,000 physical qubits by 2027. The acquisition combines IonQ's quantum computing stack with Oxford Ionics' semiconductor-compatible ion-trap technology, strengthening IonQ's technical capabilities and expanding its European presence. CEO of IonQ, Niccolo de Masi, highlighted the strategic importance of this acquisition, uniting talent from across the world to become the world’s best quantum computing, quantum communication and quantum networking ecosystem.
Recent advancements also include the activation of Europe’s first room-temperature quantum accelerator by Fraunhofer IAF, featuring Quantum Brilliance’s diamond-based QB-QDK2.0 system. This system utilizes nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers and operates without cryogenic requirements, seamlessly integrating into existing high-performance computing environments. It's co-located with classical processors and NVIDIA GPUs to support hybrid quantum-classical workloads. Moreover, IBM has announced plans to build the world’s first large-scale, error-corrected quantum computer named Starling, aiming for completion by 2028 and cloud availability by 2029. IBM claims it has cracked the code for quantum error correction, moving from science to engineering. Further bolstering the industry's growth, collaborative projects are demonstrating the potential of quantum computing in various applications. IonQ, in partnership with AstraZeneca, AWS, and NVIDIA, has showcased a quantum-accelerated drug discovery workflow that drastically reduces simulation time for key pharmaceutical reactions. Their hybrid system, integrating IonQ’s Forte quantum processor with NVIDIA CUDA-Q and AWS infrastructure, achieved over a 20-fold improvement in time-to-solution for the Suzuki-Miyaura reaction. Additionally, the Karnataka State Cabinet has approved the second phase of the Quantum Research Park at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bengaluru, allocating ₹48 crore ($5.595 million USD) to expand the state’s quantum technology infrastructure and foster collaboration between academia, startups, and industry. Recommended read:
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@blogs.nvidia.com
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Recent advancements in quantum computing include the launch of new supercomputers and the development of open-source frameworks. NVIDIA and AIST have collaborated to launch ABCI-Q, a supercomputing system designed for hybrid quantum-AI research. This system, powered by NVIDIA H100 GPUs and utilizing NVIDIA’s Quantum-2 InfiniBand platform, is hosted at the Global Research and Development Center for Business by Quantum-AI Technology (G-QuAT). ABCI-Q supports hybrid workloads by integrating GPU-based simulation with physical quantum processors from Fujitsu, QuEra, and OptQC, aiming to advance quantum error correction and algorithm development. It serves as a testbed for quantum-GPU workflows across various hardware modalities.
Quantum Machines has introduced QUAlibrate, an open-source calibration framework designed to significantly reduce the time required for quantum computer calibration. Calibration, a major hurdle in quantum system performance and scalability, can now be reduced from hours to minutes. QUAlibrate enables the creation, execution, and sharing of modular calibration protocols, allowing researchers to calibrate multi-qubit superconducting systems rapidly. At the Israeli Quantum Computing Center, full multi-qubit calibration was achieved in just 140 seconds using QUAlibrate. The framework is built on the QUA programming language and uses the Quantum Abstract Machine (QUAM) to model quantum hardware, featuring a graph-based calibration approach. These advancements are supported by strategic collaborations and investments in quantum technologies. SilQ Connect, a startup focusing on distributed quantum computing, has secured pre-seed funding to advance modular quantum interconnects. This funding from QV Studio, Quantacet, and Quantonation will support the development of microwave-optical quantum interconnects for scalable quantum systems. Additionally, Taiwan's National Center for High-Performance Computing is deploying a new NVIDIA-powered AI supercomputer to support research in climate science, quantum research, and the development of large language models. This initiative aims to foster cross-domain collaboration and global AI leadership. Recommended read:
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@thequantuminsider.com
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Heriot-Watt University has launched a £2.5 million Optical Ground Station (HOGS) at its Research Park in Edinburgh, marking a significant advancement in satellite-based quantum-secure communication. The facility, developed under the UK Quantum Communications Hub, features a 70-cm precision telescope equipped with adaptive optics and quantum detectors. This investment positions Heriot-Watt at the forefront of quantum communication research and development.
The HOGS facility will enable quantum key distribution (QKD) experiments with satellites, facilitating secure communication channels resistant to future decryption by quantum computers. The station is equipped to monitor space debris and test ultra-high-speed optical communications for next-generation networks. This is the UK’s first major infrastructure investment in free-space quantum key distribution research, as it will serve as a testbed for space-to-ground optical links that use quantum-secure protocols to exchange encryption keys via single photons. The project marks a major step in the UK’s efforts to build a quantum-secure internet, offering a unique testbed for industry and academia. Connected via dark fibre to Heriot-Watt’s quantum labs, HOGS enables real-time simulation and validation of urban to intercontinental optical quantum networks. HOGS is part of Heriot-Watt’s leadership in the new Integrated Quantum Networks (IQN) Hub, positioning the university as a central player in the development of quantum-secure communications. The facility aims to grow Scotland’s space economy and future workforce, partnering with universities, national laboratories, and businesses, including STEM programs for students. Recommended read:
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